Hip-hop's most influential sampler gets a 2017 reboot

T2 is not a cyborg, is the new more colorful Traktor

Native Instruments just unveiled a lot of enhancements to their current line of DJ software. Before, we didn't even know we were just dealing with T1, but it feels good to know that going forward, everything from Traktor Scratch Pro to Traktor Duo will have T2 inside, which features a more Serato-like waveform colorization scheme called TruWave. We'll leave it to DJ Rafik to give you the real low-down, though, in the video after the break. Also new today are the Traktor Audio 6 and 10 interfaces with new analog direct thrus -- expect them in April for $279 and $449, respectively. Now excuse us, we've got a couple of sequel ideas of our own to get cracking on.

Berlin, February 10th, 2011 – Native Instruments today announced thenew TRAKTOR generation, which establishes the next level of power andease-of-use with its TRAKTOR PRO 2 software and TRAKTOR SCRATCHPRO 2 digital vinyl system. Based on versatile new software features anda revised audio interface line, the new product generation expands thelead of Native Instruments' TRAKTOR range and gives DJs even morecreative possibilities.

The new TRAKTOR generation is based on a revised high-visibility GUIfor intuitive operation under all conditions, and now offers up to fourpowerful Sample Decks as well as the unique Loop Recorder. While eachSample Deck can add up to four simultaneous samples or loops to themix, the Loop Recorder allows DJs to capture audio from various sourceson the fly and drop it back into the mix at any time, opening up creativetechniques far beyond conventional DJing.

A further major innovation of the new TRAKTOR generation is the new"TruWave" technology. By displaying tracks and samples in all four deckswith high-resolution multi-colored waveforms, it gives deep insight intothe spectral properties of the music, visualizing both individual rhythmicelements as well as general sonic characteristics. With four selectablecolor schemes, an extra-wide zoom range and subpixel-accuracywaveform rendering, TruWave allows DJs to read their tracks visually foreven more intuitive mixing.

The leading synchronization features in TRAKTOR have been furtherexpanded with a new "SoftSync" function that provides a uniquecombination of convenient automatic beat-matching and hands-oncontrol. By keeping the tempo of multiple tracks in sync withoutmanipulating the phase, SoftSync accommodates the widest possiblerange of mixing techniques both in TRAKTOR PRO 2 and in TRAKTORSCRATCH PRO 2. The effect selection of TRAKTOR has also beenexpanded with four additional types that offer unique ways to createdramatic breakdowns and other typical performance effects, including atape delay emulation and the new "Bouncer", increasing the arsenal toan unparalleled assortment of over 30 algorithms.

The timecode-controlled TRAKTOR SCRATCH PRO 2 combines the newsoftware generation with the new TRAKTOR AUDIO 10 interface, whichoffers additional I/O, improved signal chain monitoring and a versatilenew bypass functionality over the previous AUDIO 8 model. With its trueanalog "Direct Thru" functionality that can be controlled directly fromthe TRAKTOR 2 software, TRAKTOR AUDIO 10 allows for easierswitchovers between DJ sets and is ideally suited for club installation.

Most features of the new TRAKTOR generation can also be found in thenew TRAKTOR DUO 2 versions, which offer a classic two-deckconfiguration with additional dual sample decks and a compact effectselection at an especially affordable price, with TRAKTOR SCRATCHDUO 2 including the new TRAKTOR AUDIO 6 interface.

For the TRAKTOR KONTROL S4 system, the new TRAKTOR PRO 2 willreplace the originally included TRAKTOR PRO S4 software. All KONTROLS4 owners will receive a download upgrade free of charge.

Pricing and availability

All products within the new TRAKTOR PRO 2 generation will be availablein stores in April 2011. Suggested retail pricing:

Native Instruments is a leading manufacturer of software and hardwarefor computer-based music production and DJing. The company's missionis to develop innovative, fully integrated solutions for all professions,styles and genres. The resulting products regularly push technologicalboundaries and open up new creative horizons for professionals andamateurs alike.

Native Instruments opened up the fascinating world of real-time soundsynthesis on standard computers in 1996, and today offers an extensiveproduct range for musicians, producers and DJs. The company currentlyemploys around 250 people in its two offices in Berlin and Los Angeles,and works closely with more than 40 international distribution partners toensure its future growth and success.